Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of wireless communication by a user equipment (UE), comprising: determining whether to use an Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity of a first subscriber for an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service on a second subscriber; obtaining a packet data network (PDN) connection based on the IP connectivity of the first subscriber, through a first network associated with the first subscriber and to a gateway of a second network associated with the second subscriber, if the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is determined to be used; and conducting the IMS service on the second subscriber over the PDN connection; and wherein said obtaining the PDN connection comprises: sending a request to the first subscriber for the PDN connection; and receiving from the first subscriber an acknowledgement of the request.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically enabling a user equipment (UE) to utilize the Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity of a first subscriber for an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service associated with a second subscriber. The problem addressed is the need for a UE to access IMS services on a second subscriber's network while leveraging the IP connectivity of a first subscriber, avoiding the need for separate network connections or subscriptions. The method involves determining whether to use the first subscriber's IP connectivity for the IMS service on the second subscriber. If the decision is made to use the first subscriber's connectivity, the UE establishes a packet data network (PDN) connection through the first subscriber's network to a gateway in the second subscriber's network. This PDN connection is then used to conduct the IMS service on the second subscriber. The process of obtaining the PDN connection includes sending a request to the first subscriber for the connection and receiving an acknowledgment from the first subscriber, confirming the establishment of the connection. This approach allows seamless integration of IMS services across different subscriber networks while optimizing resource usage.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if the second subscriber has no access to a wireless local area network.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing IP connectivity between subscribers in scenarios where one subscriber lacks access to a wireless local area network (WLAN). The problem addressed is ensuring seamless connectivity for a second subscriber by leveraging the IP connectivity of a first subscriber when the second subscriber cannot access a WLAN. The method involves detecting the second subscriber's inability to connect to a WLAN and then utilizing the first subscriber's IP connectivity as a fallback option. This approach ensures continuous internet access for the second subscriber by dynamically switching to the first subscriber's network when the WLAN is unavailable. The solution is particularly useful in environments where WLAN coverage is inconsistent or unreliable, such as in mobile or remote settings. The method may include additional steps to authenticate the second subscriber, establish a secure connection, and monitor WLAN availability to revert to the primary WLAN connection when it becomes accessible again. The invention aims to improve connectivity reliability and user experience by providing a fallback mechanism without requiring manual intervention.
3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if a radio frequency condition of a cellular service of the second subscriber is below a threshold.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing IP connectivity between subscribers in scenarios where one subscriber's cellular service is degraded. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable data connectivity when a primary subscriber's cellular signal is weak or unreliable, by leveraging an alternative subscriber's IP connection. The method involves monitoring the radio frequency (RF) conditions of a second subscriber's cellular service. If the RF conditions fall below a predefined threshold, indicating poor signal quality or connectivity issues, the system automatically switches IP connectivity to a first subscriber. The first subscriber's IP connection is then used as a backup or alternative data pathway. This ensures continuous data service for the second subscriber when their cellular service is compromised. The system dynamically assesses RF conditions in real-time to determine when the switch is necessary, optimizing connectivity without manual intervention. The method may also include reverting to the second subscriber's cellular service once RF conditions improve, ensuring efficient use of available resources. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple devices or users share a network, such as in family plans or enterprise mobility solutions.
4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if the second subscriber is in a limited service due to roaming that does not support the IMS service.
This invention relates to telecommunications systems, specifically addressing scenarios where a subscriber's access to IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services is restricted due to roaming limitations. The problem occurs when a second subscriber is in a roaming network that does not support IMS services, leaving them with limited connectivity options. The solution involves leveraging the IP connectivity of a first subscriber to provide the second subscriber with access to IMS services. The first subscriber's network connection acts as a relay or intermediary, enabling the second subscriber to bypass the limitations of their roaming network. This method ensures that the second subscriber can access IMS services, such as voice, video, or messaging, even when their primary network does not support them. The approach may involve dynamic routing, session management, or authentication protocols to facilitate seamless service delivery. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where roaming agreements are incomplete or where certain networks lack IMS infrastructure. By utilizing the first subscriber's connection, the system provides a fallback mechanism to maintain service continuity for the second subscriber.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the PDN connection comprises a PDN gateway of the first network in communications with the gateway of the second network.
This invention relates to telecommunications, specifically to methods for managing packet data network (PDN) connections between different networks. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient data routing when a device transitions between networks, particularly in scenarios involving a PDN gateway in the first network and a gateway in the second network. The method involves establishing a PDN connection that includes a PDN gateway from the first network communicating with a gateway in the second network. This connection facilitates data transfer between the device and external networks while maintaining session continuity. The PDN gateway in the first network acts as an anchor point, managing IP address allocation and routing policies to ensure consistent service delivery. The gateway in the second network handles local traffic forwarding and may perform mobility management functions to support the device's movement between networks. The method ensures that data sessions remain active during network transitions, minimizing disruptions and improving user experience. It also optimizes resource utilization by coordinating between the PDN gateway and the second network's gateway, reducing redundant signaling and improving efficiency. This approach is particularly useful in mobile communication systems where devices frequently switch between different access networks while maintaining active data sessions.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: applying a tunneling protocol on IP packets of the IMS service over the PDN connection.
This invention relates to telecommunications, specifically to methods for managing IP packets within an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service transmitted over a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection. The problem addressed is how to efficiently and securely transmit IMS service IP packets over a PDN connection, likely in a mobile or cellular network environment where such connections are common. The method involves the transmission of IP packets associated with an IMS service. A key step is the application of a tunneling protocol specifically to these IMS service IP packets. This tunneling protocol is applied before or during their transmission over the established PDN connection. This ensures that the IMS service traffic is encapsulated or routed in a specific manner within the broader PDN connection, potentially for purposes such as Quality of Service (QoS) management, security, or policy enforcement, distinct from other traffic on the same PDN connection.
7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the gateway of the second network is an evolved packet data gateway (ePDG).
A system and method for managing network connectivity in a wireless communication environment involves a gateway device that facilitates communication between a mobile device and a second network, such as a packet-switched network. The gateway device is configured to establish a secure tunnel with the mobile device, enabling encrypted data transmission. The gateway device also authenticates the mobile device and manages network resources to ensure efficient data routing. In one implementation, the gateway device is an evolved packet data gateway (ePDG), which is a specialized gateway used in LTE and 5G networks to handle non-3GPP access, such as Wi-Fi or fixed broadband connections. The ePDG ensures secure and seamless integration of these non-3GPP networks with the core network, maintaining data integrity and service continuity. The system may also include additional components, such as authentication servers and policy control functions, to enforce security policies and optimize network performance. The method involves establishing a secure connection, authenticating the mobile device, and dynamically managing network resources to support high-speed, low-latency data transmission. This approach enhances network flexibility, security, and reliability for mobile users accessing diverse network types.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein conducting the IMS service comprises: performing an IMS call on the second subscriber over the PDN connection.
This invention relates to telecommunications, specifically to methods for managing Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services over Packet Data Network (PDN) connections in a wireless communication system. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable delivery of IMS services, such as voice or video calls, to subscribers in a network where multiple subscribers share a single PDN connection. The method involves establishing a PDN connection for a first subscriber and then using that same connection to conduct IMS services for a second subscriber. The key aspect is performing an IMS call, such as a voice or video call, over the shared PDN connection. This approach allows multiple subscribers to utilize IMS services without requiring separate PDN connections for each, optimizing network resources and reducing signaling overhead. The method ensures that the IMS call is properly routed and maintained over the shared connection, addressing challenges related to service continuity and quality in shared network environments. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where network resources are limited or when multiple devices need to access IMS services simultaneously.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: handing-over the PDN connection from the first subscriber to the second subscriber; and conducting the IMS service over a cellular service of the second subscriber by the second network.
This invention relates to mobile communication systems, specifically to methods for transferring an Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service between subscribers while maintaining continuity. The problem addressed is the disruption of IMS services, such as voice or video calls, when a subscriber's connection is unstable or when transferring the service to another subscriber. The method involves a first subscriber initially connected to a first network via a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection, where the IMS service is being conducted. The PDN connection is then handed over from the first subscriber to a second subscriber, allowing the IMS service to continue seamlessly. The second subscriber is connected to a second network, which conducts the IMS service over the second subscriber's cellular service. This transfer ensures that the IMS service remains active without interruption, even if the first subscriber's connection is lost or degraded. The method may also include steps to authenticate the second subscriber and establish the necessary network configurations to support the handover. The invention improves service reliability and user experience by enabling uninterrupted IMS service continuity between subscribers.
10. A user equipment (UE) of wireless communication, comprising: a transceiver; and a processor coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to: determine whether to use an Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity of a first subscriber for an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service on a second subscriber; obtain a packet data network (PDN) connection based on the IP connectivity of the first subscriber, through a first network associated with the first subscriber and to a gateway of a second network associated with the second subscriber, if the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is determined to be used; and conduct the IMS service on the second subscriber over the PDN connection via the transceiver; and wherein the processor configured to obtain the PDN connection comprises the processor configured to: send a request to the first subscriber for the PDN connection; and receive from the first subscriber an acknowledgement of the request.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of enabling a second subscriber to utilize an Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service through the IP connectivity of a first subscriber. The solution involves a user equipment (UE) that includes a transceiver and a processor. The processor determines whether to leverage the first subscriber's IP connectivity for an IMS service on the second subscriber. If the decision is to use the first subscriber's IP connectivity, the processor establishes a packet data network (PDN) connection through a first network associated with the first subscriber, routing it to a gateway of a second network associated with the second subscriber. This PDN connection facilitates the IMS service for the second subscriber. The process of obtaining the PDN connection involves sending a request to the first subscriber and receiving an acknowledgment in response. This approach allows the second subscriber to access IMS services via the first subscriber's network resources, enhancing flexibility and resource utilization in wireless communication systems.
11. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if the second subscriber has no access to a wireless local area network.
This invention relates to a user equipment (UE) device that manages IP connectivity for multiple subscribers, addressing the challenge of efficiently utilizing available network resources. The UE includes a first subscriber with IP connectivity and a second subscriber that may or may not have access to a wireless local area network (WLAN). The UE determines whether the second subscriber has WLAN access. If the second subscriber lacks WLAN connectivity, the UE enables the first subscriber's IP connectivity to be used by the second subscriber. This ensures that the second subscriber can maintain internet access when WLAN is unavailable, while avoiding unnecessary use of the first subscriber's IP connectivity when WLAN is accessible. The UE may also monitor network conditions, such as signal strength or data usage, to optimize connectivity decisions. This approach improves network efficiency and user experience by dynamically selecting the most appropriate connectivity option based on availability. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple subscribers share a single UE device, such as in family or shared-use settings.
12. The UE of claim 11 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if a radio frequency condition of a cellular service of the second subscriber is below a threshold.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to a method for a user equipment (UE) device to share internet protocol (IP) connectivity between two subscribers. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable IP connectivity for a second subscriber when the cellular service quality of the second subscriber's device is poor. The solution involves a UE device that facilitates IP connectivity sharing between a first subscriber and a second subscriber, where the first subscriber's IP connectivity is only utilized when the second subscriber's cellular service quality falls below a predefined threshold. The UE monitors the radio frequency (RF) conditions of the second subscriber's cellular service and activates the shared IP connectivity only when the RF conditions are below the threshold, ensuring efficient use of network resources and maintaining service reliability. The system includes a UE with processing capabilities to evaluate RF conditions and a communication interface to manage IP connectivity sharing. This approach optimizes network performance by dynamically adjusting connectivity based on real-time RF conditions, reducing unnecessary data traffic and improving overall service quality.
13. The UE of claim 11 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if the second subscriber is in a limited service due to roaming that does not support the IMS service.
This invention relates to mobile communication systems, specifically addressing scenarios where a user equipment (UE) device is used by multiple subscribers, and one subscriber is unable to access certain services due to roaming restrictions. The problem occurs when a second subscriber on the UE is in a roaming network that does not support IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services, which are required for advanced communication features like voice over LTE (VoLTE) or video calls. In such cases, the UE is configured to allow the second subscriber to use the IP connectivity of the first subscriber, who is on a home network that supports IMS services. This ensures that the second subscriber can still access IMS-based services despite being in a roaming network with limited support. The solution involves dynamically routing IMS traffic through the first subscriber's connection when the second subscriber's roaming network lacks IMS capabilities, thereby maintaining service continuity. The UE includes logic to detect the roaming restrictions and automatically switch connectivity paths to enable IMS services for the second subscriber. This approach avoids service disruptions and enhances user experience in multi-subscriber scenarios.
14. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the PDN connection comprises a PDN gateway of the first network in communications with the gateway of the second network.
This invention relates to mobile communication systems, specifically to user equipment (UE) handling connections between different networks. The problem addressed is efficiently managing packet data network (PDN) connections when a UE transitions between networks, such as from a 3GPP network to a non-3GPP network, while maintaining seamless connectivity. The UE includes a processor configured to establish a PDN connection that spans both networks. The PDN connection includes a PDN gateway in the first network (e.g., a 3GPP network) that communicates with a gateway in the second network (e.g., a non-3GPP network). This setup allows the UE to maintain a continuous data session even when switching between networks, avoiding disruptions. The UE may also include a memory storing instructions for managing these connections, ensuring proper handover procedures and session continuity. The invention further involves the UE detecting network conditions and selecting the appropriate gateway for the PDN connection based on factors like signal strength, network load, or service requirements. The PDN gateway in the first network acts as an anchor point, coordinating with the gateway in the second network to ensure data flows seamlessly. This architecture supports interworking between different network types, improving reliability and user experience during network transitions. The solution is particularly useful for applications requiring uninterrupted connectivity, such as voice over IP (VoIP) or real-time data services.
15. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor is further configured to: apply a tunneling protocol on IP packets of the IMS service over the PDN connection.
This invention relates to user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, specifically addressing the secure transmission of IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services over a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection. The problem solved is ensuring secure and reliable delivery of IMS service data, such as voice, video, or messaging, over potentially untrusted networks by applying a tunneling protocol to the IP packets. The UE includes a processor configured to establish a PDN connection for IMS services and apply a tunneling protocol to the IP packets of these services. The tunneling protocol encapsulates the IMS service data within additional headers, providing encryption, authentication, or integrity protection to prevent interception or tampering. This ensures secure transmission even if the underlying network is untrusted. The processor may also manage the PDN connection, including authentication, session establishment, and quality-of-service parameters, to maintain reliable service delivery. The tunneling protocol can be implemented using standards like IPsec or other secure tunneling mechanisms, ensuring compatibility with existing network infrastructure. This approach enhances security for IMS services without requiring modifications to the core network, making it suitable for deployment in various wireless environments.
16. The UE of claim 15 , wherein the gateway of the second network is an evolved packet data gateway (ePDG).
A system and method for managing network connectivity in a wireless communication environment involves a user equipment (UE) device that transitions between different network types, such as a first network (e.g., a non-3GPP network) and a second network (e.g., a 3GPP network). The UE includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the UE to establish a secure communication tunnel with a gateway in the second network. The gateway in the second network is an evolved packet data gateway (ePDG), which facilitates secure data transmission between the UE and the second network. The UE may also include a network interface for communicating with the first network and a security module for managing authentication and encryption processes. The system ensures seamless and secure handover between networks, maintaining continuous connectivity while protecting data integrity. The UE may further include a mobility management module to handle transitions between networks, ensuring minimal service disruption. The solution addresses challenges in maintaining secure and uninterrupted connectivity across heterogeneous networks, particularly in scenarios where the UE moves between 3GPP and non-3GPP networks. The ePDG acts as a critical component in establishing and maintaining secure IPsec tunnels for data transmission, enhancing security and reliability in the communication process.
17. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor configured to conduct the IMS service comprises the processor configured to: perform an IMS call on the second subscriber over the PDN connection.
This invention relates to user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, specifically addressing the management of Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services across multiple subscriber profiles. The problem solved is the need for a UE to efficiently handle IMS calls when switching between different subscriber identities, such as in dual-SIM or multi-SIM devices, without disrupting ongoing services. The UE includes a processor configured to manage IMS services for a second subscriber profile. When an IMS call is initiated or received, the processor ensures the call is conducted over a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection associated with the second subscriber. This involves establishing or maintaining the PDN connection specifically for the second subscriber, allowing seamless IMS communication without requiring manual intervention or service interruption. The solution ensures that IMS services, such as voice or video calls, are properly routed and maintained even when the UE switches between different subscriber profiles, improving reliability and user experience in multi-subscriber scenarios. The processor may also handle authentication, session management, and network registration for the second subscriber to ensure uninterrupted IMS functionality.
18. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor is further configured to: handover the PDN connection from the first subscriber to the second subscriber; and conduct the IMS service over a cellular service of the second subscriber by the second network.
This invention relates to mobile communication systems, specifically handling Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services during subscriber changes in a user equipment (UE) device. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless IMS service continuity when a primary data network (PDN) connection transitions between different subscribers or network services. The UE includes a processor configured to manage PDN connections and IMS services. The processor can handover an existing PDN connection from a first subscriber to a second subscriber, allowing the IMS service to continue uninterrupted. After handover, the IMS service operates over the cellular service of the second subscriber, facilitated by a second network. This ensures that the IMS service remains active even if the subscriber or network changes, improving service reliability and user experience. The solution involves dynamic reallocation of network resources and service continuity mechanisms to maintain IMS functionality across subscriber transitions. This is particularly useful in scenarios where a primary subscriber's service is disrupted, and a secondary subscriber or backup network must take over without service interruption. The invention enhances flexibility in mobile communication systems by enabling seamless transitions between subscribers while preserving critical IMS services.
19. An apparatus of wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: means for determining whether to use an Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity of a first subscriber for an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service on a second subscriber; means for obtaining a packet data network (PDN) connection based on the IP connectivity of the first subscriber, through a first network associated with the first subscriber and to a gateway of a second network associated with the second subscriber, if the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is determined to be used; and means for conducting the IMS service on the second subscriber over the PDN connection; and wherein the means for obtaining the PDN connection comprises: means for sending a request to the first subscriber for the PDN connection; and means for receiving from the first subscriber an acknowledgement of the request.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of enabling a user equipment (UE) to utilize the IP connectivity of one subscriber (the first subscriber) for IMS services associated with another subscriber (the second subscriber). The solution involves an apparatus that determines whether to leverage the first subscriber's IP connectivity for the second subscriber's IMS services. If the decision is made to use the first subscriber's connectivity, the apparatus establishes a PDN connection through the first subscriber's network to a gateway in the second subscriber's network. This PDN connection is then used to conduct IMS services for the second subscriber. The process includes sending a request to the first subscriber for the PDN connection and receiving an acknowledgment from the first subscriber, confirming the establishment of the connection. This approach allows the second subscriber to access IMS services via the first subscriber's network infrastructure, potentially improving service availability or efficiency. The apparatus ensures proper coordination between the two subscribers' networks to facilitate seamless service delivery.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if the second subscriber has no access to a wireless local area network.
This invention relates to a system for managing IP connectivity between two subscribers in a wireless network environment. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable internet access for a second subscriber when a primary wireless local area network (WLAN) connection is unavailable. The apparatus includes a first subscriber device with an active IP connection and a second subscriber device that may or may not have access to a WLAN. The system dynamically determines whether the second subscriber can connect to a WLAN. If the second subscriber lacks WLAN access, the apparatus automatically routes its IP traffic through the first subscriber's existing connection, effectively sharing the first subscriber's network resources. This ensures continuous internet access for the second subscriber without manual intervention. The solution optimizes network usage by prioritizing direct WLAN connections when available and falling back to the shared connection only when necessary. The apparatus may include additional features such as authentication mechanisms, bandwidth management, and quality-of-service controls to maintain secure and efficient data transfer. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where one subscriber has a stable connection while the other experiences intermittent or no WLAN access, such as in mobile or hybrid network environments.
21. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the PDN connection comprises a PDN gateway of the first network in communications with the gateway of the second network.
This invention relates to a telecommunications apparatus for managing packet data network (PDN) connections between different networks. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient data routing when a device transitions between networks, such as from a first network to a second network, while maintaining an active PDN connection. The apparatus includes a gateway in the first network that communicates with a gateway in the second network to establish and maintain the PDN connection. The PDN connection is configured to allow data exchange between the device and external networks, such as the internet or other services. The apparatus ensures that the PDN connection remains active during network transitions, preventing service interruptions. The gateway in the first network may act as a PDN gateway, handling tasks such as IP address assignment, policy enforcement, and data routing. The gateway in the second network may be a serving gateway or another type of gateway that facilitates communication between the device and the PDN gateway. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as mobility management entities or policy control functions, to manage session continuity and data flow. The invention improves network efficiency and user experience by minimizing disruptions during network transitions.
22. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising: means for applying a tunneling protocol on IP packets of the IMS service over the PDN connection.
This invention relates to telecommunications systems, specifically improving the handling of IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services over Packet Data Network (PDN) connections. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and efficient transmission of IMS service data, particularly in environments where direct IP connectivity may be unreliable or insecure. The apparatus includes a mechanism for establishing a PDN connection to a network, where the PDN connection is configured to support IMS services. Additionally, it provides a means for applying a tunneling protocol to IP packets of the IMS service over the PDN connection. This tunneling protocol ensures that IMS service data is encapsulated and transmitted securely, protecting it from interception or corruption during transit. The tunneling mechanism may involve encapsulating IMS IP packets within another protocol layer, such as IPsec or GRE, to maintain integrity and confidentiality. The apparatus may also include a means for managing the PDN connection, such as monitoring its status, initiating or terminating the connection as needed, and ensuring that the connection meets the required quality of service (QoS) parameters for IMS services. This ensures that the PDN connection remains stable and reliable for real-time IMS applications like voice and video calls. By applying a tunneling protocol to IMS service IP packets, the invention enhances security and reliability for multimedia communications over PDN connections, addressing challenges in environments where direct IP connectivity may be compromised.
23. The apparatus of claim 22 , wherein the gateway of the second network is an evolved packet data gateway (ePDG).
A system for secure communication between a first network and a second network, where the first network is a non-3GPP access network and the second network is a 3GPP-based mobile network. The system addresses the challenge of securely connecting devices from non-3GPP networks, such as Wi-Fi or fixed broadband, to a 3GPP core network, ensuring seamless and secure data transmission. The apparatus includes a gateway in the second network that facilitates the secure exchange of data between the networks. Specifically, the gateway is an evolved packet data gateway (ePDG), which acts as an anchor point for non-3GPP access networks, providing IPsec tunnels to authenticate and encrypt traffic. The ePDG ensures that data from the first network is securely routed to the 3GPP core network, maintaining integrity and confidentiality. The system may also include additional components, such as a mobility management entity (MME) or a serving gateway (S-GW), which handle session management, mobility, and data routing within the 3GPP network. The ePDG authenticates the non-3GPP access network devices using the 3GPP authentication framework, ensuring compliance with security policies. This solution enables secure interworking between heterogeneous networks while maintaining the reliability and security standards of the 3GPP ecosystem.
24. The apparatus of claim 19 , further comprising: means for handing-over the PDN connection from the first subscriber to the second subscriber; and means for conducting the IMS service over a cellular service of the second subscriber by the second network.
This invention relates to mobile communication systems, specifically to apparatuses for managing IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services during subscriber handover in cellular networks. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless continuity of IMS services when a primary subscriber's connection is transferred to a secondary subscriber, particularly in scenarios where the primary subscriber's network connection is unreliable or interrupted. The apparatus includes a first network that establishes a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection for a first subscriber and a second network that provides cellular service to a second subscriber. The invention further includes means for handing over the PDN connection from the first subscriber to the second subscriber, allowing the second subscriber to take over the IMS service session. Additionally, the apparatus includes means for conducting the IMS service over the second subscriber's cellular service, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery. This handover mechanism is particularly useful in scenarios where the first subscriber's connection is unstable, such as in emergency situations or when the primary device is low on power. The solution enables seamless transition of IMS services, such as voice or video calls, between subscribers without service disruption.
25. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, the instructions comprising codes executable for a user equipment (UE) to perform: determining whether to use an Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity of a first subscriber for an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) service on a second subscriber; obtaining a packet data network (PDN) connection based on the IP connectivity of the first subscriber, through a first network associated with the first subscriber and to a gateway of a second network associated with the second subscriber, if the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is determined to be used; and conducting the IMS service on the second subscriber over the PDN connection; and wherein the codes for obtaining the PDN connection comprises: codes for sending a request to the first subscriber for the PDN connection; and codes for receiving from the first subscriber an acknowledgement of the request.
This invention relates to a system for enabling a second subscriber to utilize the Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity of a first subscriber for accessing IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services. The problem addressed is the need for a second subscriber to access IMS services without establishing their own separate IP connectivity, leveraging an existing connection from a first subscriber. The solution involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by user equipment (UE) to determine whether the IP connectivity of the first subscriber should be used for IMS services on the second subscriber. If the decision is made to use the first subscriber's IP connectivity, the UE obtains a packet data network (PDN) connection through a first network associated with the first subscriber, routing it to a gateway in a second network associated with the second subscriber. This allows the second subscriber to conduct IMS services over the established PDN connection. The process of obtaining the PDN connection includes sending a request to the first subscriber for the connection and receiving an acknowledgment from the first subscriber. This ensures that the first subscriber's IP connectivity is properly utilized for the second subscriber's IMS services. The system enables efficient resource sharing between subscribers while maintaining proper authorization and connectivity management.
26. The medium of claim 25 , wherein the IP connectivity of the first subscriber is to be used only if the second subscriber has no access to a wireless local area network.
This invention relates to a system for managing IP connectivity in a network environment where multiple subscribers share or prioritize network access. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient and reliable IP connectivity, particularly when a second subscriber lacks access to a wireless local area network (WLAN). The solution involves a medium, such as a computer-readable storage device, that stores instructions for controlling IP connectivity. The instructions determine whether the second subscriber has access to a WLAN. If the second subscriber does not have WLAN access, the system uses the IP connectivity of a first subscriber instead. This approach ensures that the second subscriber maintains connectivity by leveraging the first subscriber's network resources when necessary. The system may also include additional features, such as monitoring network conditions, dynamically adjusting connectivity settings, and prioritizing network resources based on availability and performance. The invention aims to optimize network usage and prevent connectivity disruptions by intelligently routing traffic through available connections.
27. The medium of claim 25 , wherein the PDN connection comprises a PDN gateway of the first network in communications with the gateway of the second network.
This invention relates to telecommunications systems, specifically methods for managing packet data network (PDN) connections between different networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure communication between a first network and a second network, particularly when the second network is a non-3GPP network such as a Wi-Fi network. The solution involves establishing a PDN connection that includes a PDN gateway from the first network in direct communication with a gateway of the second network. This configuration allows for seamless data exchange while maintaining network security and performance. The PDN gateway acts as an intermediary, facilitating the transfer of data packets between the networks while ensuring compatibility with different network protocols. The gateway of the second network may be a non-3GPP access gateway, enabling integration with various types of wireless networks. The system ensures that data flows are properly routed and managed, reducing latency and improving reliability. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where a user device moves between different network types, ensuring continuous connectivity without service disruption. The invention enhances interoperability between heterogeneous networks while maintaining the integrity and efficiency of data transmission.
28. The medium of claim 25 , further comprising: codes for handing-over the PDN connection from the first subscriber to the second subscriber; and codes for conducting the IMS service over a cellular service of the second subscriber by the second network.
This invention relates to mobile communication systems, specifically handling IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) services during subscriber handover between cellular networks. The problem addressed is maintaining seamless IMS service continuity when a primary subscriber (first subscriber) transfers a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection to a secondary subscriber (second subscriber), ensuring uninterrupted service delivery over the secondary subscriber's cellular network. The invention involves a computer-readable medium containing executable codes for managing the handover of a PDN connection from a first subscriber to a second subscriber. The codes facilitate the transfer of the PDN connection while preserving the IMS service session. Additionally, the codes enable the second subscriber's network to continue providing the IMS service over the second subscriber's cellular service, ensuring service continuity without disruption. The solution ensures that the IMS service remains active and accessible to the second subscriber, leveraging the second subscriber's network infrastructure for seamless service delivery. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where a primary subscriber needs to transfer ongoing IMS services to another subscriber, such as in shared or delegated service scenarios. The invention optimizes network resource utilization and enhances user experience by maintaining service continuity during subscriber transitions.
Unknown
April 7, 2020
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